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"Finding employment is a key part of the resettlement process. It gives former refugees financial independence and also offers them the opportunity to use their skills and contribute back to their community." - NZ Red Cross

Recognising this, the country's Red Cross runs a Pathways to Employment programme that helps former refugees plan their employment, education, training and career goals and ultimately find work. Its services include:

Helping to plan employment and career goals

Assessing skills, including English language skills

Referrals to English or vocational training opportunities

Assisting with the writing of CV's and cover letters

Helping make appointments and get interviews, as well as coaching on interview skills

Finding work trials and work experience

Encouraging employers to employ people from refugee backgrounds

"Our clients have a wide range of skills and experience. Former clients have found employment in an array of sectors, from engineering to hospitality," says Red Cross on its website, adding that a former refugee seeking employment or an employer who has an available position, can contact Melanie Douglas in Christchurch at 03 339 3750 ext 3554 / 0274 036 058 or melanie.douglas@redcross.org.nz

As Dunedin is also resettling refugees now, the contact there is Jarrah Cooke at 03 477 1527, Jarrah.Cooke@redcross.org.nz

Nationally, people can contact Claire Speedy at 021 228 2061 or claire.speedy@redcross.org.nz for other enquiries.